Here’s a list of some prominent nursing schools in Abuja, Nigeria, along with their typical admission requirements.
These schools are directly affiliated with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) and provide the training needed to qualify as a Registered Nurse (RN) or Registered Midwife (RM).
1. FCT School of Nursing, Gwagwalada
- Location: Gwagwalada, Abuja
- Programs Offered: Basic Nursing Program
- Duration: 3 years for the Basic Nursing program.
Admission Requirements:
Minimum of five (5) credits in O’Level results (WAEC/NECO) including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, all in no more than two sittings.
Candidates must be 17 years or older at the time of admission.
Candidates must pass the entrance examination and oral interview.
Application Period: Admission forms are typically sold in February and March; interviews are usually in May.
2. University of Abuja Teaching Hospital School of Nursing, Gwagwalada
- Location: University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja
- Programs Offered: Basic Nursing Program, Post-Basic Nursing Program (e.g., Midwifery)
- Duration: 3 years for Basic Nursing; Post-Basic programs may vary.
Admission Requirements:
O’Level Requirements: Minimum of five (5) credits in subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, achieved in no more than two sittings (WAEC/NECO).
Candidates must be at least 17 years old.
Passing both an entrance examination and interview is required.
Application Period: Admission forms are usually released around March to May. Entrance exams and interviews follow shortly after the application process.
3. School of Post-Basic Critical Care Nursing, National Hospital Abuja
- Location: National Hospital, Central Business District, Abuja
- Programs Offered: Post-Basic Critical Care Nursing (specialized nursing)
- Duration: Typically 1 year for Post-Basic program
Admission Requirements:
Candidates must have completed a Basic Nursing program and be a Registered Nurse (RN).
Must have a valid practicing license issued by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
At least one year of clinical experience in a hospital setting is usually required.
Must pass the entrance examination and interview.
Application Period: Usually opens in April or May.
4. School of Post-Basic Anaesthesia Nursing, National Hospital Abuja
- Location: National Hospital, Central Business District, Abuja
- Programs Offered: Post-Basic Anaesthesia Nursing
- Duration: 1 year
Admission Requirements:
Must hold a valid RN certificate.
At least one year of post-registration clinical experience is often required.
Valid NMCN practicing license.
Pass entrance examinations and interviews.
Application Period: Typically begins in April or May.
5. School of Post-Basic Perioperative Nursing, National Hospital Abuja
- Location: National Hospital, Central Business District, Abuja
- Programs Offered: Post-Basic Perioperative Nursing
- Duration: 1 year
Admission Requirements:
Must be a Registered Nurse (RN).
At least one year of clinical experience in a relevant field.
Hold a valid practicing license from NMCN.
Pass the entrance exams and interview.
Application Period: Applications usually open between March and May.
General Notes on Admission Processes
Entrance Examinations and Interviews: For most nursing schools, an entrance examination and an interview are mandatory, as these help assess the candidates’ competency and commitment to the profession.
Age Requirement: For Basic Nursing programs, the minimum age is often 17 years.
O’Level Subject Requirements: Core science subjects (English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics) are required, typically with at least a credit level in each subject.
Post-Basic Programs: Specialized areas like Critical Care, Anaesthesia, and Perioperative Nursing require prior RN certification and experience, usually focusing on nurses seeking advanced, focused training in specific clinical areas.
How to Apply
1. Purchase of Admission Forms: Admission forms can be obtained at designated points within each institution or online when available.
2. Application Fees: Fees vary but are generally around N5,000 – N10,000.
3. Documentation: Prepare to submit copies of your O’Level results, birth certificate, valid ID, and in some cases, evidence of previous training or licensing (for Post-Basic programs).
Conclusion
Each nursing school may have specific application windows, so it’s essential to keep an eye on announcements or contact the school directly for accurate timelines and updates.
